USF shows world the ropes

For hundreds of athletes at the University of South Florida this week, skipping rope is much more than a kids' game. Teams from 19 countries will compete beginning today in the World Rope Skipping Championships. Events include the traditional single rope and double Dutch competitions, albeit with an athletic flair — expect lots of flips and dancing — not normally found on local sidewalks. With more than 1,100 competitors, coaches and volunteers, this will be the largest conference USF housing has ever hosted. The event runs through Aug. 7. Passes can be purchased at the Sun Dome.